Deep within the Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania is an island. Yes that's right an island; near the picturesque Delaware Water Gap in the middle of the Delaware River is an island. And on this island you will find 24 outstanding holes of the 27 that make up the Shawnee Inn Golf Course.

Originally designed and built in 1906 by infamous golf architect A.W. Tillinghast, it has long been know as one of the gems on the east coast.

With some tight tree lined fairways and Par 3 greens with no room from error from the tee, Shawnee is a true "shot makers" course.

The ability to accurately strike the ball with directional precision should leave you in good shape to score well. But if your tendency is to spread your ball around you could be in trouble on some holes fast at Shawnee.

The ability to hit the long tee shot will put you into position on the Par 5's. The Par 5's are reachable in two but the testy green side bunkers come into play, so pay attention to your course management.

At the time of our visit the course was in excellent condition. We were mired in a serious east coast rain storm and the course held up wonderfully.

Even though the rain did soak our ability to play the game, the drainage on both the fairways and greens was not much of an issue on any hole played before play was suspended.

Amigos favorite Hole: Our favorite hole was not even one we played because of the rain. But we were able to observe a couple of foursomes play the hole the day before.

On the Friday afternoon before our round we took out a cart to preview the course and take pictures prior to the in pending rain.

The Number 2 hole on the red course is a 159 yard Par 3 with an extreme test of accuracy. From the tee your faced with a tee shot across the Delaware River onto the island.

You can see from the picture to the right above, accuracy is the key to playing the hole well. Any shot hit fat, pushed right or hooked left will be severely affected. The only escape is to hit it hard and if anything make sure your take enough club up to the tee because on this hole the only safe area is beyond the green straight ahead.